Updating an ongoing story, Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers (shoulder) is leaning toward playing in 2018, according to a source. Peppers is recovering from shoulder surgery and is not quite ready to commit to a return.

Carolina Panthers interim general manager Marty Hurney was reinstated Friday, Feb. 16, after the NFL informed the team that there was no evidence of Hurney violating the league's Personal Conduct Policy.

Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton "doesn't need changing, he just needs to be the best version of Cam Newton," according to quarterbacks coach Scott Turner.
"He's going to run - that's what makes him the dynamic player he is - but also making the throws in the pocket, going through his reads. All of those things come from experience, and he's played seven seasons now," Turner said.

Fantasy Tip: Newton hasn't completed 60 percent of his passes in any season since 2013 and is a 58.5 percent thrower for his career, which is about the only thing keeping him from becoming the premier fantasy option at his position on a yearly basis. The Panthers would be wise to let him continue to pick his spots as a runner and have to hope Team Turner (offensive coordinator Norv as well as Scott) can help him become a more accurate passer. Newton will remain a clear QB1 for fantasy purposes in 2018.

Updating a previous report, Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers (shoulder) underwent surgery Thursday, Feb. 8, to repair the labrum in his shoulder, according to a source. Peppers has not decided if he will play in 2018.

Carolina Panthers WR Curtis Samuel (ankle) does not have a timetable in his recovery from a broken bone and ligament damage in his left ankle. He remains in a walking boot while rehabilitating and hopes to be ready for training camp.

Fantasy Tip: Olsen was limited to seven regular season games because of his foot injury and posted only 191 yards and one touchdown during those games. He played better in the playoff game and should be ready for the 2018 season. He can be considered a No. 1 tight end in all fantasy leagues.